Flood warning updated between Chelmsford and Whitefish

The City of Greater Sudbury is making sandbags available due to rising water levels on several area waterways.

Conservation Sudbury says McCharles Lake is now included in the flood warning for the Vermilion River between Chelmsford and Whitefish.

“Parts of Dowling near the Onaping River are now under a flood watch,” the organization said in a news release Monday.

“All other watercourses in Greater Sudbury remain under a flood outlook. This notice remains in effect until 5 p.m. Wednesday.”

The Vermilion River continues to rise in response to the snow melt in the northern part of its watershed, Conservation Sudbury said.

“The recent weather system brought 30 mm of rain to the area resulting in increased flows in the river with contributions from Junction Creek and the Whitson River,” the release said.

“The water level on McCharles Lake is impacted by flows from both Junction Creek and the confluence of the Vermilion River near Centennial Park. As water levels continue to rise, inundation of low-lying areas, including some residential driveways, will continue.”

Residents are advised to plan accordingly, Conservation Sudbury said.

“While the rate of rise is anticipated to slow as Junction Creek flows pass through the system, the increasing flow from the Vermilion River will cause the water level in McCharles Lake to continue rising.”

The Onaping River also continues to rise and some streets in Dowling, including those in the area between Riverside Drive and Poplar Street, are currently under a flood watch.

“Within the Chelmsford area, levels are trending to hit 2023 peaks within the next few days,” the release said.

“Water levels have currently crested (and) some local roads are continuing to rise at a steady rate. As the Upper Vermilion continues to rise, levels may exceed those of the 2023 spring season. Access on some local roads, including Larchmont Drive, has been affected and residents should plan accordingly.”

Within the Whitefish area, water levels are starting to crest some local roads and are continuing to rise steadily.

Should current trends hold, levels are projected to match 2023 peaks within the week.

Access on some local roads, including Carol Drive, has been impacted and residents should plan accordingly. Properties adjacent to the Vermilion River are at a higher risk of flooding and occupants should be prepared.

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Flood preparedness information can be found here.

“Water levels will not decrease rapidly and developing conditions must be closely monitored by all residents, especially those living in known low-lying, hazard areas where overland flooding could become an issue again,” Conservation Sudbury said.

“Conservation Sudbury remains in direct contact with the City of Greater Sudbury and all other partners as required. Conservation Sudbury staff continue with the monitoring of water levels; updates will be provided as required.”

Residents can access Conservation Sudbury’s Water Data Portal here for live information on water level trends.